New Rules for International Students in Sweden
As part of the legislative amendments entered into force on 11 June 2026, new restrictions apply to students holding residence permits for studies in Sweden. The changes also introduce new requirements for students seeking to transition from studies to a work permit. The main purpose of the new 15-hour weekly work limit is to stop abuse of student residence permits and ensure that people coming on student residence permits are studying, not primarily working.
Key Changes
Restriction on Working Hours During Studies
- Students holding a Swedish residence permit for studies will be limited to a maximum of 15 working hours per week during active study periods.
- The restriction applies while studies are ongoing and during academic terms.
- The limitation will not apply during holiday periods or summer breaks.
New Requirement for Work Permit Applications
- Students applying for a work permit from within Sweden must have completed at least two academic terms of studies in Sweden.
- The studies must have been conducted under a valid residence permit for higher education.
Extended Opportunities Following Studies
- Students completing their studies in Sweden will continue to have the possibility to remain in Sweden to seek employment or explore opportunities to start a business.
- The post-study residence period may be granted for up to 18 months.
Changes for Researchers and Doctoral Candidates
- Doctoral candidates may in certain cases be granted residence permits for research rather than studies.
- New rules may also provide increased flexibility for researchers and doctoral candidates to apply for new permits or permanent residence from within Sweden.
What This Means for Employers
These changes may have practical implications for employers currently engaging international students or planning future recruitment from Swedish universities.
Employers should be aware that:
- Student employees must not exceed the permitted working hour limitation during study periods
- Employers should ensure that internal processes and managers are aware of the new restrictions
- Exceeding the permitted working hours may negatively affect the student’s residence status and future applications
- Students who have not completed at least two academic terms in Sweden may not qualify to transition to a work permit from within Sweden
- Early workforce planning may become increasingly important when hiring international students for long-term employment opportunities
How K2 Can Support You
K2 can support your organisation by:
- Assessing eligibility for work permit transitions from studies
- Reviewing timing and strategic planning for applications
- Advising on compliance related to student employment
- Supporting employers with right-to-work assessments and permit planning
We will continue to follow how these rules are applied in practice and provide further updates as additional guidance becomes available.
Should you have any questions or wish to discuss how these changes may impact your organisation or employees, please do not hesitate to contact our team at immigrationsweden@k2xborder.com.
This update is for informational purposes only, proper advice should be sought on a case by case basis.
